A group of people waited outside as James Harris was released, shielding him from questions about the allegations.

The former Mariner High School teacher and basketball coach was arrested on Thursday after the student told investigators she and the 40-year-old were in a sexual relationship.

The girl told investigators the two started texting in the summer, with the relationship turning sexual in November.

The student said they had sex in his classroom and in his office at the school, eventually continuing their relationship at his home.

Harris no longer works at the school, and the district has launched an investigation.

Student-teacher communication?

We found out what school rules say about teachers and students communicating after school.

We read through policies from both the Lee County School Board and Florida Department of Education's code of ethics.

Nothing in the paperwork says students and teachers can't communicate outside of school. However, parents we spoke with say it's alright as long as it doesn't cross any lines.

But defining that line isn't easy.

Parent Sandra Loloy said texting is not OK.

"No, I really think you know, face to face. I think it's better the old fashion way when teachers talk to a student," she said.

Other parents said that as long as the relationship stays friendly, it can really help struggling students.

"I certianly think that that's a good thing if it's to help a student," said parent Maria Pearce. "My son had that kind of help in the past and it was the best thing that happens to him, they definitely helped him."

However, there is no policy for communication outside of school – only ethical standards. The state education department's code of ethics states educators shall not exploit a relationship with a student for personal gain or advantage and will try to keep students from any harm.

"Maybe email through the school email system, but not really too much secretive things can go on with texting that can lead to things that are not good," Loloy said.

The school board policy states teachers who don't follow their high ethical standards could be disciplined which could lead to being fired.

The Lee County School Board does have a policy regarding teachers using technology owned by the school where sending inappropriate material is not allowed.